Manila is relatively safe if you know which areas to avoid and which areas are safe. Here is a quick rundown of safe places and places to avoid:

Safe Neighborhoods in Manila

Makati – The business district of Manila and one of the safest places to visit.

BGC – Another upscale area that is very similar to the United States. Prices are a bit higher than Makati and it’s very safe to walk around.

Rockwell – It’s very safe area and you will find some of the wealthiest Filipinos in Manila living here.

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Manila

Malate – A very dangerous area that only gets tourist traffic because of L.A. Cafe. I don’t recommend staying in this area at all.

Paranaque – Another low class neighborhood that’s located near the airport. It’s full of poverty and drugs. Avoid at all costs.

Ermita – It’s located near Malate and should be avoided for safety reasons.

Pasay – It’s a decent neighborhood, but you won’t find so many tourists/expats living here. I’d avoid it.

My Best Advice for Black Men in Manila: Stay in Makati

If you want to stay safe during your trip, then my best advice is to stay in Makati. You will find many black expats and tourists already living there so you won’t have a problem networking with other brothas.

Also, you can go out at night and not worrying about your safety (even if you had a little too much to drink). If you only plan to spend a few days/weeks in Manila, then stay in Makati.

Room Recommendations

Use AirBNB or Agoda to find an affordable room in Makati. If you want to stay near a lot of the action, then search for rooms near P. Burgos St or Makati Ave.

P. Burgos St is the red light district area in Makati and you can find many P4P bars & nightclubs there. Makati Ave is one of the biggest main streets that connects from the nice malls in Gioretta all the way to P. Burgos St.

Did you feel safe in Manila? Share your personal story in the comments section below.